Real Madrid's Rüdiger Says Spain's Team Play Is the Difference

Summary

Real Madrid defender Antonio Rüdiger joins Bloomberg to discuss the 2026 World Cup final. He backs Spain to win due to their team play and possession, while praising Lionel Messi's enduring greatness. He also talks about player longevity, his charity foundation, and opposes expanding the tournament to 64 teams.

• Rüdiger predicts Spain will win the final against Argentina, citing Spain's dominant team play and possession.
• He acknowledges Argentina's threat led by Lionel Messi and a hard-working supporting cast.
• Messi at age 39 continues to deliver on the world stage, proving his exceptional quality.
• The 2026 World Cup saw a record number of older players, which Rüdiger attributes to better health management and discipline.
• He promotes his foundation supporting children in Sierra Leone through health, education, and sports development.
• Rüdiger opposes FIFA's potential expansion of the World Cup to 64 teams.
• He reflects on positive fan interactions and the cultural experience of traveling across the U.S. during the tournament.